Nora Wma Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nora Twp 33 Lybeck Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Nora Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Minnesota is a state-owned site managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for fish and wildlife conservation purposes.
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Summary
Located in Pope County, near the city of Cyrus, Nora WMA encompasses a fish and wildlife pond that serves as a crucial resource for the local ecosystem. The WMA is situated along the Chippewa River, providing a habitat for various species and supporting biodiversity in the region.
The dam at Nora WMA is an earth structure with a height of 11 feet, designed by MN DNR Management Resources. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 26 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in August 2019. The WMA's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam.
Given its importance for wildlife conservation and water resource management, Nora WMA serves as a valuable asset in the state of Minnesota. With its location along the Chippewa River and dedication to fish and wildlife preservation, the site plays a significant role in supporting the local ecosystem and contributing to the overall health of the region's water resources. As climate change continues to impact ecosystems, Nora WMA stands as a testament to the state's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable management practices.
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
CHIPPEWA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
1.8 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Nora Wma